What Is Alcantara? Why It’s Trending in Retro Interiors

You may have come across the name Alcantara while browsing luxury furniture, car interiors, or fashion. but what exactly is it? And why is Alcantara suddenly appearing in some of the most stylish retro-inspired interiors across the UK?

Soft to the touch, elegant in appearance, and surprisingly durable, Alcantara is a premium material that's becoming a go-to choice for designers and homeowners looking to add a touch of sophistication to their vintage-inspired spaces.

In this guide. we'll explain what Alcantara is, how it compares to suede and leather, and why it's trending in retro interiors right now.

What Is Alcantara?

Alcantara is a high-performance synthetic textile that closely resembles suede — but with better durability, and resistance to stains and fading.

Key facts about Alcantara:

• Made from a blend of polyester and polyurethane
• Developed in Italy in the 1970s
• Knows for its soft, suede-like texture
• Lightweight, breathable, and easy to clean
• Used in furniture, automotive interiors, fashion, and tech accessories

Unlike natural suede or leather, Alcantara is vegan-friendly, non-toxic, and more consistent in colour and texture.

Why Is Alcantara Trending in Retro Interiors?

As retro style continues to influence modern design in 2025, designers are revisiting 1970s-inspired materials — but updating them for today's lifestyle. Alcantara is emerging as a favourite for its ability to capture the look of vintage fabrics with a modern twist.

Here’s why it’s so relevant now:

1. A Nod to 70s Suede — Without the Maintenance

Retro interiors often feature plush textures like suede, velvet, and corduroy. Alcantara offers the look and feel of suede but is much easier to care for — perfect for everyday living.

2. Versatile and Luxurious

Available in a wide range of colours and finishes, Alcantara fits seamlessly into mid-century, retro, or even minimalist spaces. It adds richness without being overwhelming.

3. Durable and Long-Lasting

Ideal for upholstery, Alcantara resists wear and tear — making it a great option for sofas, lounge chairs, and cushions that see daily use.

4. Eco-Conscious Appeal

Alcantara is certified carbon neutral, and the company behind it has invested in sustainability, which appeals to eco-aware UK homeowners.

Alcantara vs. Other Upholstery Fabrics

Where You’ll See Alcantara in Retro Interiors

1. Sofas and Lounge Seating

Alcantara-upholstered sofas deliver the retro look of 70s suede with a modern, low-maintenance twist. Togo-style sofas, in particular, are often offered in Alcantara-inspired finishes.

2. Accent Chairs and Ottomans

For smaller pieces, Alcantara adds a soft and tactile element without overwhelming the room. It's great for adding texture to mid-century or eclectic interiors.

3. Cushions and Soft Furnishings

Alcantara cushions in earthy tones (like rust, mustard, or sage) blend beautifully with retro palettes while being practical for daily use.

4. Wall Panels or Headboards

In more high-end applications, Alcantara can be used for wall coverings or custom headboards — offering a luxurious, retro-modern feel.

Popular Alcantara Colours for 2025

Retro interiors are known for their warm, grounded tones. Alcantara comes in a broad spectrum of colours, but these are currently trending in UK interiors:

• Burnt Orange: Classic 70s with bold personality
• Mustard Yellow: Cheerful and earthy
• Forest Green: Deep, moody, and elegant
• Terracotta: Rustic and retro-chic
• Camel or Tan: A timeless neutral that mimics vintage suede
• Charcoal: Sophisticated and grounding for contrast

Tip: Use Alcantara in one or two key pieces — like a lounge chair or ottoman — and layer wool or boucle for added depth.

Caring for Alcantara Upholstery

One of the biggest benefits of Alcantara is that it's low-maintenance compared to suede or leather.

Basic care tips:

• Vacuum regularly using a soft brush attachment
• Spot clean stains with a damp cloth and mild soap
• Avoid strong solvents or bleach-based cleaners
• Rotate cushions periodically to ensure even wear

With the right care, Alcantara furniture can retain its good looks for many years.

Looking for retro-inspired furniture with modern durability?

Explore Mobelaris UK’s collection of Alcantara-style sofas and lounge chairs 

Bring soft texture, timeless style, and effortless elegance to your space

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